Gardai are probing if a “lovely, respectable woman” was the victim of a vicious beating by someone known to her before she died.
The Irish Mirror has learned that Louise Muckell, 54, was found seriously injured at her house in Rathkeale, Limerick, at around 8.30pm on Tuesday.
She was rushed to hospital and despite the best efforts of medical staff, the former music teacher lost her battle for life on Wednesday.
Read more: 'Lovely' former music teacher at centre of 'mystery' death named
A major probe is underway and investigators believe that she was in a residence in the Windmill Street area of Limerick city, a 30-minute drive from her home, some time before her assault.
Cops had also attended an incident in this area on Tuesday.
As officers await results of a postmortem, one line of inquiry is that the woman may have been the victim of a brutal assault by someone known to her before she was dropped back to her home in Cois Deel.
A source said: “One thing certainly being looked at is that she was assaulted by someone
she knew. At the moment, it looks like she could have been assaulted in Limerick city before she was found later that night in Rathkeale.
“The investigation is in full swing and a lot of work has already been undertaken.”
Ms Muckell was not married or did not have any children but she is from a well-known local family and was formerly a music teacher.
A local source said: “She was a very respectable lady, she had taught piano in the former Sisters of Mercy secondary school.
“She also used to sing in the local church, at weddings and funerals, and was much sought after as a talented musician.
“I understand she lived alone, she loved her dog, and she kept herself to herself, so it’s hard to know what has happened.
“She was too nice for this world.”
Meanwhile, local councillor Adam Teskey said: “It’s a sad situation, this is completely out of the norm for Rathkeale.”
Limerick gardai have asked anyone who can help their investigation to contact them on 061 212400 or the Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.
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